Garmin Edge 1000 cycling computer review

LIES, damned lies, and statistics. That may be the old adage, but there's no hiding behind the figures with a Garmin Edge 1000 on board.

This is the latest addition to the Edge range, upping the ante on the 510 and 810 derivatives to deliver improved satellite navigation, more information and greater functionality than you dreamed possible.

And it's addictive.

Slightly smaller than an iPhone 5, the colour touch-screen is about 7.5cm on the diagonal.

Flicking through the various pages and functions is a swipe process and even worked during chilly winter rides with full finger gloves - although the fingerless options are more accurate.

Accessing satellites was done outstandingly quickly. While the 910XT watch can take a minute or two in finding satellite access, the Edge managed the task in seconds.

Getting it all set up is equally simple, even for those not tech-savvy. In the box (with the bundle which also includes a heart rate monitor) are cadence and speed sensors.

The speed device can be attached to either your front or rear hub; choosing the latter is a good option, as it then makes the Garmin useful on the indoor trainer.

Like most other units, the cadence sensor is applied to one of the crank arms. Both have stretchy elastic-style attachment ties which take little time to set-up, with no magnets required.

This also makes it easy to switch bikes quickly and take the unit with you.

There are a few mounting options for the actual Edge 1000 unit - one can fit around the head stem using the supplied rubber bands, or you can you use the "out in front" system which is good for time trial bikes but requires a screwdriver.

When it's time to hit the road, you power up the unit and it does the hard work for you. Automatically locating any ANT+ devices within range, like the heart rate monitor, the aforementioned cadence sensor or power meter.

The rider then chooses between race and train modes, while the desired screen can also be set up to deliver the information you want at a quick glance.

While riding, you can swipe between screens with horizontal movements, flicking between maps, altitude information, or the customisable data screens.

The best usage during our test was the latter, configuring a screen to feature speed, wattage (having also paired Garmin's Vector power meter), cadence and speed. You just need to hold your finger on the section of screen you want to change to customise your data.

For the uninitiated all that information may sound like a gimmick, but it's amazing how it can improve your riding by keeping a close eye on the likes of cadence and power output on various terrain.

Those with Shimano electric gear shifting will be impressed by the live readout showing which cog you're using.

It's also compatible with ANT+ capable trainers, with devices such as Wahoo KIKR and CycleOps PowerBeam Pro able to be paired as power meters.

Operationally it's all straight forward and you won't need a degree to get things set up quickly.

One cool function is its ability to connect with your smartphone. With the phone tucked away in your back pocket, it can show incoming texts and calls (iPhone 4s and later).

Personal bests are also stored and when you top your previous best over a set distance, it lets you know at the end of the ride.

It's also water proof... you can't go swimming with it, but rain is no worries.

Garmin Edge 1000

Key features: Preloaded maps and points of interest, including parks and trails with bike-specific information.

Weight: 114.5g.

Battery life: Up to 15 hours.

Size: 5.8 x 11.2 x 2cm.

Price: $699 and $799 for the bundle including heart rate monitor and speed/cadence sensors.